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Fatigue linked to liver and kidney impairment ?

Carter K
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Hi there,

I was successfully treated for stage 3 testicular cancer  in 2021 (rapid orchidectomy followed by 4 cycles of BEP). 

Despite getting back to work full time and resuming regular gym activity, I’m still plagued by fatigue. Having changed roles at work in May this year, my fatigue worsened, so I returned to my GP hoping for a better understanding than their previous assessment of ‘general chronic fatigue’.

Today the GP reception told me that my liver and kidney functions are impaired (shown up via blood tests), as to be expected and that the GP was taking no further action.

I recall my oncologist telling me that the cisplatin could cause kidney and liver impairment, but I now don’t know where to turn. The oncologist has previously dismissed my fatigue, so I now don’t know if this is a permanent state, or whether the impairment can be reversed. I know I have made progress, but lately I’ve felt it is worsening as I do more at work and home.

are you able to offer any advice or clarity?

thank you!

  • Hi  

    Thanks for posting your question with us. My name is Amy and I'm one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. I can see you have been part of our community for several years now and I hope you are still finding it a safe and supportive environment for connecting with others who understand what you’re going through.

     

    I’m sorry to hear you are still finding fatigue is impacting your day-to-day life and work. For many people this gradually improves over the months and even years after completing chemotherapy but unfortunately some find they must adjust to a new normal, and never quite get back to where they were pre-treatment.

     

    Testicular cancer treatment can affect testosterone levels, liver and kidney function as well as lung function which all could impact energy levels.

     

    It would be helpful to get back in touch with your cancer team. Most people are followed up for 5 years. But you should be able to contact your clinical nurse specialist (CNS) or consultant usually via the secretary between appointments.

     

    It might be worth asking them how to best manage your liver and kidney impairment and what levels they feel are acceptable and at what point you may need further tests or management. It would also be useful to ask if your testosterone levels can be checked as this too can impact fatigue levels.

     

    Coping with fatigue can be challenging and it can also be that constant reminder of your diagnosis - when you are trying to just live a normal life after cancer treatment.

     

    We have lots of hints and tips on how to cope with fatigue. Keeping as active as possible can really help. But it can be tricky to find the balance between this and not pushing yourself too hard. Using a fatigue diary can help find any patterns that may make your symptoms better or worse.

     

    Eating well and getting a good night’s sleep can also help improve overall wellbeing, mood, and fatigue. Penny Brohn really focus on all aspects of wellbeing and you may find it helpful to explore the information and workshops on offer.

     

    It can also help speak to someone about how you are feeling and how difficult you are finding work and home life. We often find we can help more by exploring these questions over the phone. If this is something you think would help, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch via our support line on 0808 808 0000. We are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm.

     

    You might find it useful to reach out to ORCHID and Testicular Cancer UK who has a large private Facebook forum. And Shine Cancer Support, although not testicular cancer specific, offers support for people up to their 40’s.

    Some people also benefit from more structured support through our Free Counselling with BUPA.

     

    I hope this helps and please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.

      

    Best wishes, 

    Amy C, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

     

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref: AC/DK

     

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